John Charles Crutcher passed away on August 20, 2024, in Nashua, New Hampshire. He adored literature, sports, music, and travel, but his family was the light of his life. John was also a dedicated political and community activist, who had great hope for the country’s future.
John was born on October 7, 1949, to William and Joana (Barker) Crutcher in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. Growing up, he was very involved in the church and faith became a cornerstone of his life.
A voracious reader, John enjoyed a career in publishing that spanned several decades, marketing books to independent bookstores and major chains across the country. He also owned a bookstore in Westchester County, NY, and co-founded Bloomberg’s Book Group. Career and family allowed John to live in cities across the nation and world. His last two decades were spent in New Jersey, the United Kingdom, Vermont, and New Hampshire.
In retirement, John dedicated his time to his family and community. He coached both his children’s soccer teams, volunteered at their schools, his churches, and several social service agencies that supported low-income families, the hungry, addicted, and unhoused citizens. John also helped organize a UK phone bank focused on substance abuse recovery. Most recently, John was active with the United Way of Greater Nashua, tutoring children and adults, and volunteering at food and school supply drives.
John was predeceased by his parents William and Joana, and sister-in-law Autumn (Goodwin) Crutcher. He is survived by his wife Beth (Stone) Crutcher; children Zachary (Kathryn Franz) and Kira Crutcher; siblings Lynne (Gary) Bird, Wynne Foote and Lee Crutcher, as well as an extended family and friends he greatly loved.
A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, September 22, 3:00 pm at The Chapel, Trinity Episcopal Church, 33 Mercer Street, Princeton, NJ. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to United Way, The Humane Society, Common Cause, or a charity that represents what John meant to you.
